16min chapter

Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda cover image

Anne Curzan: Say What? Says Who?

Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

CHAPTER

The Evolution of Language: Embracing Change

This chapter examines the dynamic nature of language, focusing on how words and phrases evolve in meaning over time. It contrasts 'wordies' who embrace linguistic changes with 'gromandos' who resist them, using examples like 'funner' and historical shifts of words such as 'unique' and 'hopefully.' The discussion highlights the complexities of idioms, grammatical rules, and the growing acceptance of practices like the singular 'they' as societal norms change.

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